Raloxifene

Raloxifene is used to treat and prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, as well as to reduce the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women, whether they have osteoporosis or not. It works by binding to estrogen receptors in the breast and by increasing bone mineral density. Raloxifene comes in tablet form and is typically taken once a day. Side effects include hot flashes, joint pain, and flu-like symptoms.

 

What Is Raloxifene?

Raloxifene hydrochloride (Evista®) is a prescription medication approved for the following uses:
 
  • Preventing and treating osteoporosis in postmenopausal women
  • Reducing the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis
  • Reducing the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women who are at high risk for it.
     
(Click What Is Raloxifene Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Side Effects of Raloxifene

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with raloxifene. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
 
Common side effects of raloxifene include, but are not limited to:
 
(Click Raloxifene Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;